In a powerful display of solidarity, women across South Africa are preparing for a series of protests under the '#PurpleMovement,' demanding recognition of gender-based violence (GBV) as a national disaster. This initiative follows the alarming rise in violence against women, with rates significantly higher than the global average. Activists have launched a viral social media campaign, urging individuals to join the movement by changing their profile pictures to purple, a color symbolizing GBV awareness.
The protests will culminate in a nationwide 'shutdown' on Friday, coinciding with the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, where participants are encouraged to take a day off work or school and participate in a brief silent protest to honor the 15 women who are murdered daily.
Statistics reflect the severity of the situation, as reports indicate that from January to March this year alone, 137 women were murdered and over 1,000 were raped. Activists, including the organization Women for Change, are rallying the public and pushing for tougher government action against GBV, emphasizing the need for genuine implementation of existing laws. While the government has previously declared GBV a crisis, activists are increasingly calling for more effective measures, stating that the current responses are inadequate.
As the protest day approaches, support from celebrities and citizens continues to grow, with many wearing black to symbolize mourning and resistance, demonstrating a collective demand for change in addressing GBV in South Africa.
The protests will culminate in a nationwide 'shutdown' on Friday, coinciding with the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, where participants are encouraged to take a day off work or school and participate in a brief silent protest to honor the 15 women who are murdered daily.
Statistics reflect the severity of the situation, as reports indicate that from January to March this year alone, 137 women were murdered and over 1,000 were raped. Activists, including the organization Women for Change, are rallying the public and pushing for tougher government action against GBV, emphasizing the need for genuine implementation of existing laws. While the government has previously declared GBV a crisis, activists are increasingly calling for more effective measures, stating that the current responses are inadequate.
As the protest day approaches, support from celebrities and citizens continues to grow, with many wearing black to symbolize mourning and resistance, demonstrating a collective demand for change in addressing GBV in South Africa.
